Office of Community Corrections – Success Stories

On January 24, 2014, the 18-1 Melbourne Probation Office held their first T4C Graduation. We are proud to report that seven probationers were able to successfully complete this worthwhile program. During the ceremony, the probationers were given the opportunity to speak about their impression of the program and how it has changed them. It was very moving to hear one of the graduates state that she was reluctant to enter the program, but really ended up seeing how the program has changed her way of thinking about life and her future. One of the graduates stated that this program has helped him to learn to make better decisions in his life, including helping his girlfriend with challenges she has been facing. All of the graduates spoke and were extremely positive about their experience with our program, and expressed their gratitude to our dedicated and devoted staff of facilitators, including Officer Brett Decatur, Officer Derrick Ingram, Officer Robert Ellis, and Officer Nichola Ogunlari. After the graduates were presented certificates of completion by Circuit Administrator Richardson, they were treated to lunch, cake, and refreshments.

Southern Region – Circuit 17 – Offenders' Letters Show Gratitude

Circuit 17 received numerous thank you letters and letters of appreciation from offenders/former offenders, representing one of our greatest successes. Four of these letters are included below:

“I wanted to thank you for being one of the best PO I've ever had. I know how hectic and frustrating your Job can get, but; you still take your time to treat me like human being.May God bless and protect you“

“Sometimes words aren't enough.I worked with officer McDougall for 1 years time.If not for her I never would have made it through.Ms McDougall treated me like a person not a number. Her open mindedness allowed me to get on with my life. Get back to my career.I really can't say enough about Her.Thank my lucky stars she was assigned to my case.Wishing you a happy holiday season”

“Dear Officer Nobles,

I wanted to share with you my accomplishment as you were integral to my success! Being under your supervision during my probation/house arrest was one of the best things about that part of my life.

You always took the time to make me feel like I mattered and encouraged my school journey. Since I returned to school, I earned all A’s in the 280 credits I needed, still worked at (name redacted) and am now a supervisor!

Thank you for caring about your job and for helping your clients.”

“While I was on Community Control, my officer Ms. Natalie Castel, helped me with my resume and helped me get a job. I would like to thank Ms. Castel for believing in me. Without her help, I don’t know where I would be right now. So thank you Ms. Castel and the Department of Corrections for giving me a second chance.”